Bangkok: In a special women's volleyball match between the Chinese national team and the Thai national team, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Thai-Chinese diplomatic relations and serving as a warm-up before the 2025 Women's Volleyball World Championship, the Thai women's team lost 0-3 sets.
According to Thai News Agency, this event was marked by the presence of Mr. Sorawong Thienthong, Minister of Tourism and Sports, who presided over the opening ceremony, which included a lion dance performance.
The Chinese women's team, renowned as two-time world champions and ranked 4th in the world, faced off against the 21st-ranked Thai national team. The match offered free entry to volleyball fans and attracted a lively crowd of both Thai and Chinese supporters. Pre-game activities included engaging games and face painting in national flag colors, reflecting the anticipation and excitement for the match and the upcoming 2025 World Championship.
Under the guidance of "Coach Oat" Kiattipong Rachatakraingkrai, the Thai women's team featured players such as Chatchu-on Moksri, Atcharaporn Kongyot, and Pimpichaya Kokram. Meanwhile, the Chinese team, led by Zhao Yong, included notable players like Shuang Yu and Wang Mengjia. Although the match was slated for four sets, the Thai team was defeated in the first three. The fourth set was played in a friendly spirit with athletes from both countries joining teams.
Post-match, Coach Oat expressed gratitude to the Chinese team for the valuable experience. He also announced the roster for the 2025 World Championship, where the Thai team will be competing in Group A against Egypt, Sweden, and the Netherlands. Their matches are scheduled for late August at the Indoor Stadium, Huamark.
The Chinese team, placed in Group F, will begin their championship journey in Chiang Mai Province, with matches against Mexico, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic, leading up to the end of August.